Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are contemplating a potential return to the United Kingdom for the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games. However, concerns loom over the Duchess of Sussex potentially overshadowing the event, as highlighted by royal expert Angela Levin.
In an interview with Nana Akua for GB News, journalist and royal biographer Angela Levin delved into the internal dynamics of the Invictus Games organization, suggesting a perception that Meghan Markle was exerting undue influence over the event established by Prince Harry in 2014. Levin underscored the sentiment within the Invictus Games community, expressing a concern that Markle appeared to be "taking over" what was initially her husband's initiative.
Levin drew attention to an event attended by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex earlier this year in Canada, in anticipation of the 2025 Invictus Games set to take place in British Columbia's Vancouver and Whistler. She voiced apprehensions raised in Canada about the trajectory of the Games, implying Prince Harry's diminishing prominence within the initiative.
"Prince Harry was reportedly 'out the door when it comes to who is in the spotlight,'" Levin remarked, echoing concerns expressed by individuals involved in the Invictus Games.
Levin further elucidated on Markle's involvement, pointing out her active participation in various aspects of the event, including delivering speeches and leading ceremonies. Despite these contributions, Levin suggested a perception among stakeholders that Markle lacked the experiential depth to fully comprehend the challenges faced by wounded servicemen and veterans.
"She knows nothing about fighting and going in wars," Levin asserted, outlining the prevailing sentiment. "It was Harry's job, and I think they feel quite sorry for him. They're angry."
Expanding on Markle's demeanor, Levin highlighted what she perceived as an attitude of superiority exhibited by the Duchess. "I think it's an extraordinary attitude that Meghan has, she thinks she's better than everyone. She thinks of herself as globally famous," Levin remarked.
The conversation also touched upon the potential ramifications of hosting the Invictus Games in the United Kingdom, with Levin speculating on the implications for the royal family amidst the ongoing discord with the Sussexes.
"If this happens in the UK, it's going to be very, very difficult for the Royal Family," Levin emphasized, underlining the complexities surrounding a potential reconciliation given the strained relations between Prince Harry and the broader royal establishment.
Commenting on the logistics of the Games, TV host Nana Akua suggested Birmingham as a probable venue over London, raising the prospect of familial interaction as a catalyst for reconciliation. "Maybe they'll talk to each other -- but who wants to go to Birmingham?" Akua mused.
Jennie Bond, an English journalist and former royal correspondent for the BBC, added her insights into the potential UK-based event. She highlighted the delicate diplomatic considerations surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's interactions with the wider royal family.
"They could be confined, I think, to meetings with [King] Charles -- and perhaps [Princesses] Eugenie and Beatrice. The rest of the family would have to think hard about the implications of meeting Harry and Meghan," Bond surmised, as per The Mirror.
Bond further underscored the necessity for senior royals to weigh their allegiances between Prince William and Kate Middleton against potential engagements with the Sussexes, underscoring the intricate dynamics at play within the royal household.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry's purported desire to reengage with royal duties in the UK has stirred speculation among royal commentators, with Nathan Kay asserting that the prince is determined to be "back in the thick of it."
As the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games approaches, an event deeply significant to Harry, preparations are underway for his participation. Scheduled for May 8 at St Paul's Cathedral, the occasion will witness Harry delivering a speech to commemorate the milestone.
In an opinion piece for Express UK, Kay reflected on the persistent transatlantic tensions surrounding the Sussexes, emphasizing their persistent efforts to reestablish a presence in Britain despite ongoing controversies. Kay remarked, "The grenades have been coming thick and fast from across the pond for years now, but the Sussexes still seem hellbent on forcing their way back into Britain whether we like it or not."
Citing Harry and Meghan's vocal critiques of the Royal Family and the recent publication of author Omid Scobie's book, "EndGame," Kay underscored a prevailing sentiment of distrust toward the couple. He opined, "The duo simply 'can't be trusted.'"
While speculation persists over Meghan's willingness to accompany Harry on his forthcoming UK visit, Scobie's assertions that Meghan "never really felt at home" in the UK and harbors no desire to return have fueled further intrigue.
Royal writer Tom Quinn weighed in on Harry's potential return, highlighting the event's significance and its implications for his familial relationships. Speaking to The Mirror, Quinn suggested that Harry's attendance at the Invictus Games is almost inevitable, given his instrumental role in its inception.
"Barring a major upset, Harry will certainly return to the UK for the Invictus Games in May; it's his baby," Quinn remarked. He further speculated on the potential repercussions of Harry's absence, positing that such a decision could be construed as avoidance of familial tensions, particularly his relationship with Prince William.
During a segment on "Good Morning America," Prince Harry hinted at his forthcoming visits to the UK, affirming his intention to reconnect with family members. While he refrained from addressing his father's recent cancer diagnosis, he emphasized his commitment to maintaining familial ties. "I've got other trips planned that will take me through the UK, or back to the UK, and so I'll stop in and see my family as much as I can," Harry remarked.
Since relocating to the US, Prince Harry and Meghan have maintained a strained relationship with the monarchy, making sporadic returns to Britain. Residing in a sprawling mansion in Montecito, California, with their children, Archie and Lilibet, the couple's transatlantic lifestyle underscores their departure from traditional royal duties.
Prince Harry's most recent visit to the UK was marked by brevity, as he made a swift journey to see his father following Charles's announcement of his cancer diagnosis. The encounter, lasting less than 25 hours, symbolized a fleeting reunion between father and son, underscoring the complexities of their relationship amidst ongoing familial discord.
